Stapelia leendertziae

Stapelia leendertziae, commonly known as Black Bells or Leendertz’s Carrion Flower, is an unusual succulent prized for its upright, angular green stems and extraordinary deep maroon-purple, bell-shaped flowers. The blooms can reach around 10–12cm long and are among the most distinctive flowers produced by any Stapelia.

Supplied in a 9cm diameter nursery pot at approximately 20cm tall, this is a fascinating choice for succulent collectors or anyone looking for something genuinely unusual.

Those Extraordinary Flowers

Stapelia leendertziae produces large, pendulous, bell-shaped flowers in shades of deep reddish-purple to almost black. Like other carrion flowers, the blooms produce an unusual scent designed to attract flies for pollination.

Despite the dramatic reputation of Stapelia flowers, the scent of this species is not necessarily overwhelming. The South African National Biodiversity Institute notes that it is generally much more noticeable close to the flower than from across a room.

Light & Position

Give Stapelia leendertziae plenty of bright light. A bright south- or west-facing position is ideal, with some direct sunshine beneficial once the plant has been gradually acclimatised.

Very intense summer sun through glass can occasionally scorch the stems, so provide a little protection during the hottest part of the day if necessary.

Watering

During spring and summer, water thoroughly and then allow the compost to dry well before watering again. Excellent drainage is essential, as the fleshy stems and roots are susceptible to rot if kept constantly wet.

During autumn and winter, water very sparingly, giving only enough to prevent the stems becoming excessively shrivelled.

Humidity & Temperature

Stapelia leendertziae prefers low to normal household humidity and does not require misting.

Keep it in a warm, bright position and protect it from frost and prolonged cold. In the UK it is best treated as an indoor, conservatory or greenhouse plant.

Feeding

Feed lightly around once a month during spring and summer using a low-nitrogen cactus or succulent fertiliser while the plant is actively growing.

Do not feed during autumn and winter.

Growth & Care

This species forms a gradually expanding clump of upright to spreading, four-angled succulent stems. Over time it can become quite broad, making a shallow, well-drained container particularly suitable.

When repotting, use a very free-draining cactus or succulent compost with additional grit or mineral material. Avoid moving the plant into an unnecessarily large pot.

Where Does Stapelia leendertziae Come From?

Stapelia leendertziae is native to north-eastern South Africa and Eswatini, where it occurs naturally on rocky ground with shallow soils.

It is considered uncommon in the wild but has become popular in cultivation because of its remarkable flowers and relatively straightforward succulent care.

Why You'll Love It

• Extraordinary deep maroon-purple bell-shaped flowers
• Distinctive angular succulent stems
• A fascinating collector plant
• Drought tolerant once established
• Does not require high humidity or misting
• Compact enough for a bright windowsill or succulent display
• One of the most unusual flowering succulents you can grow indoors

Pet & Child Safety

Reliable toxicity information for Stapelia leendertziae is limited. We recommend keeping the plant out of reach of pets and young children and discouraging chewing or ingestion.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Stapelia leendertziae
Common Names: Black Bells / Leendertz’s Carrion Flower / Carrion Flower
Family: Apocynaceae
Native Range: North-eastern South Africa and Eswatini
Nursery Pot Size: 9cm diameter
Approximate Height: Around 20cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 11cm+
Growth Habit: Clump-forming succulent
Position: Bright light / some direct sun
Humidity: Low to normal household humidity

Please note: As this is a living plant, the exact height, number of stems and overall shape will naturally vary. Plants may not be in flower when supplied. Decorative pots shown in photos are not included. This plant is supplied in a plastic nursery pot.